Defensive steel is praised by Graham Turner

Town had not conceded more than once in any of their four League One games prior to this afternoon’s trip to Notts County.

And Turner believes the credit for that strong base should be shared by the entire team.

“We’ve not conceded too many chances,” he said. “Chris Weale has had solid performances but hasn’t had too many spectacular saves to make. That’s been down to the whole team doing the jobs defensively from front to back.

“Whenever we can we defend high up the pitch with a view to keeping the opposition restricted to the number of times they get the ball into our box. It has been a very good team effort in terms of defending well.”

Town lost captain Ian Sharps and Australian Shane Cansdell-Sherriff but have seen their resources boosted by the signing of Darren Jones on a permanent deal and Michael Hector on loan from Reading.

Reuben Hazell has also increased options after making his return from long-term injury against Stevenage last week.

Meanwhile, Shrewsbury were today learning their opponents for their first outing in this season’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

Town are placed in the north west section of the draw.